During the preparation for the 9^th Annual Lighthouse of Hope Back-to-School and Health Fair, dozens of area youth and adults worked together seamlessly as they stuffed over 300 backpacks.  Bridgeport residents, Tressa and Ray Shaw, along with Outreach Cooridinator, Gwen Cornman, organized the event, which provided school supplies, food, health screenings and entertainment for over 500 residents in the Monticello Avenue section of Clarksburg.

 

“We could not do without the help of generous donations flowing in from area churches, businesses, organizations and individuals,” said Shaw.  The Lighthouse of Hope Ministry began n 2002 as a faith-based organization that focuses on education, health, safety, and spiritual development.  Since then, the small staff has managed to establish community centers in two vital areas of Harrison County.  The Lighthouse of Hope demonstrates a serving spirit by providing for the needs of the whole person. 

 

“By offering food, training, connections, resources, and spiritual guidance, we have touched the lives of hundreds of area families,” said Shaw.  “We do this to honor the work of Christ and to make our communities more cohesive.”

 

Both the Monticello location and the Laurel Lanes location assist families with job training, parenting, tutoring, and health care needs.  Last Saturday, residents flocked to receive the free backpacks, which were filled with everything students could possibly need for school. 

 

Along with the backpacks, residents were treated to free health screenings and education by Health Access, The Clarksburg Lions Club, MedExpress, Literacy Volunteers, HOPE, Inc. and many more.

 

“It was through the generous donations of partners such as Sacred Heart Children’s Center, MVB Bank, Clarksburg Kiwanis Club and others that this event was possible,” said Shaw.  “Churches from all denominations gathered in the Activities Building at Simpson Creek Baptist Church on August 11, along with dozens of area volunteers.  In our 9^th year of the event and preparation, it is very moving to see how God provides and uses the people of Harrison County to help others.”

 

 

The Back-to-School and Health Fair event featured children’s games, crafts, food, face painting and family activities.  WorldVision donated free new clothing and the Clarksburg Fire Department was available for kids to explore.  The group will be hosting holiday dinners and Christmas bags for area families in the upcoming months.  If you would like to donate time or resources, contact TShaw@TheLightHouseofHope.net.